DIY Valentines
As Valentine’s Day is one of those unavoidable consumer holidays, in our classes we use the weeks leading up to Valentine’s Day to talk about love and what it means to us. It is fascinating to listen to children discuss who they love, why they love them, and what they can do to express their love. We talk about all the people in our lives that love us and that we love in return: mothers, fathers, teachers, nannies, siblings, grandparents, cousins, friends, even pets. We then set off on a week or two of making homemade cards for all of them. We use Valentine’s Day to actualize the lyrics of one of our favorite songs, “Love is Something if You Give it Away.” We like to have children take time out to make or bake something special for the people they love and give it or mail it to them.
Here, we welcome art teacher and blogger Christina Soriano to the Shine family. She shares a couple of quick, fun, and surprisingly beautiful art ideas for homemade valentines. And remember, a great way to give back around Valentine’s Day is to make cards for your local senior center. Many seniors don’t have a valentine and to receive a handmade card from a child means more than chocolates or flowers ever could. What better way to illuminate the true spirt of of a holiday that could leave so many feeling lonely.
Continue to shine your light and open your heart –
Aaron Goldschmidt, founder & director
Make someone’s heart shine this Valentine’s Day and send them a handmade card! This is by far one of my favorite times of year to create cards and other handmade presents. It is a great way to keep kids creative and engaged on a cold winter’s afternoon. I spent this weekend making some with my four-year-old nephew, Simon. The best part of the activity is that it promotes kindness and gratitude. Start off by asking children to make a list of all the people they care about. The fun part happens when ideas come to life when the glue, scissors, and materials take over! Here are some ideas you can try at home:
Torn Paper Heart Collage Valentine
Supplies needed:
- Construction paper
- Glue
- Blank stationery
Directions:
- Start by lightly drawing a heart on your stationery with pencil.
- Tear colored paper into small pieces
- Glue and overlap the small pieces within the shape until it is filled in!